How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more practical.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in both shape and function, making it impossible for anyone else to access your property using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can get a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same design as your existing key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys like keys for your car or home security.
The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However, you should always consult a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used if one is locked out of their car, home or other secure area because it allows them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is identical in size and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models, but some factors that influence a person's choice are the type of key they need as well as whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they'd like to spend. The tool they select will also affect the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines that are able to cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. They can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. auto key cutting makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you're in a bind.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but is risky if the key isn't made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if needed and at a fraction of price as you would at the dealer.